There is nothing better than a walk through the lush landscapes of Wales, whether it be a strenuous hike up one of the many mountains the country has to offer or a sandy stroll across some of its stunning coastal paths. And it's even better if there's an opportunity for a nice refreshing drink en route where you can soak it all up.
That is something The Clytha Arms has to offer. The award-winning pub and restaurant sits on the outskirts of Abergavenny, surrounded by gorgeous countryside. What's more, the family-run pub is pretty close to a beautiful National Trust park walk in the Usk Valley.
The Clytha short circular walk, which is only 3.8 miles, snakes alongside the River Usk, through leafy woods and paths that meander through trees, including oak, sweet chestnut and beech, all of which are worth looking out for. On the short walk, you'll also pass the ruins of St Aeddan's Chapel and see far-reaching views of the Sugar Loaf before a track takes you up to Clytha Castle.
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At one point in the walk, after crossing a horse paddock, you'll find the drive leading up to the Clytha Arms pub on your left. The pub was recently named one of the best in Wales alongside seven other Welsh establishments by Pub & Bar.
The pubs will now compete against each other for the title of Pub & Bar of the Year at the 2023 National Pub & Bar Awards in June. At that ceremony, 15 regional award winners will be named while one out of 94 finalists will be crowned National Pub & Bar of the Year. You can read more about the awards including the other Welsh pubs nominated here.
According to its website, The Clytha Arms was also voted Country Pub of the Year 2016, 2015, 2014 and 2011 while highly commended in 2012 by The Campaign for Real Ale. The Clytha Arms describes itself as "warm and friendly" with open log fires and sofas indoors that embody a cosy and welcoming atmosphere.
Outside there is ample garden space with lots of seats, tables and picnic benches to sit under the trees and enjoy nature at its finest.
The Clytha serves up proper pub food with pie and mash or chips of the day, mussels with cider and leeks with fries, and pork Goulash with bacon dumplings all on its main menu, as well as a nod to its Welsh roots with leek and laverbread rissoles with salad and beetroot chutney and a selection of Welsh cheese on offer for dessert. It also regularly changes its selection of ales and ciders.
The location is a dream pit stop for walkers as it's just outside the historic town of Abergavenny, three miles away from Raglan Castle and based right at the mouth of many National Trust park walks, including the one mentioned above.
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